AMERICAN FRIENDS OF WHISTLER Americans with ties to Whistler who raise and distribute funds for enhancing the Whistler community and to foster greater friendship between Canadians and Americans. For more information visit www.afow.org

ART IN THE WILD Carol Roberts hosts a free nature walk with sketching and painting every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at different Whistler locations. Bring paper and pen. For info contact Carol at carol3cs@hotmail.com

AWARE is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of the environment Meets the first Wednesday of every odd month, 6 p.m. at the Westin. For more ino contact Sara Jennings at aware@direct.ca or visit www.awarewhistler.org.

BIG BROTHERS/BIG SISTERS Please call 604 938 9299 if you would like to make a difference in a child's life. Adult mentors provide friendship and fun for children in elementary schools one hour per week.

CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS' ASSN (CHBA) Meets every second Wednesday at Earl's Restaurant from 12 -1:15 p.m. All members and non-members welcome! For more info, contact Bronwen at 604-902-4104 or chbaseatosky@whooshnet.com.

COUNCIL OF CANADIANS The Whistler chapter invites locals to engage in discussions of Canadian sovereignty, social justice, water issues, healthcare, security issues and international trade. Contact Betty at bmcw@telus.net

DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB Meets every Wednesday from 9:40 a.m. to 1 p.m. at MY Place. Visitors and new members are warmly welcomed. For info or partnership arrangements call Gillian at 604-932-5791.

GET BEAR SMART SOCIETY People and Bears Living in Harmony. Learn more about co-existing with bears in your backyard. Call us at 604-905-4209 or at www.bearsmart.com

MATURE ACTION COMMITTEE (MAC) MAC's goal is to create resident housing projects for seniors that respond to their special needs and help them remain in Whistler.. Call 604-932-5699, email whistlermac@telus.net, or visit www.whistlermac.org

PEARL'S SAFE HOME Temporary shelter in a safe, supportive environment for women and children experiencing abuse in relationships. Locations in Whistler and Pemberton, available 24 hours a day. All services are free. Call 1-877-890-5711 or 604-892-5711.

PEMBERTON ARTS COUNCIL Connect with other artists, writers, musicians and other creative types and help make Pemberton a vibrant arts community. Meetings every third Thursday, 7:30 p.m. 1422 Collins Road. Call 604-894-5558 or www.pembertonart.com